Keel Laying Ceremony Of Indian Navy’s First Fleet Support Ship Held At HSL

The first Fleet Support Ship for the Indian Navy had its keel-laying ceremony at Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) in Visakhapatnam on November 14, 2024. This marks the beginning of a significant project that will strengthen India’s naval capabilities. The ceremony was led by Vice Admiral B Siva Kumar, who is in charge of Warship Production & Acquisition, along with senior officials from the Indian Navy and HSL.

A Big Step for Indian Navy

In August 2023, the Indian Navy signed a deal with HSL to build five Fleet Support Ships. These ships will start being delivered in mid-2027. Each of these large vessels will weigh over 40,000 tons. Their main job will be to supply Indian naval ships with water, fuel, ammunition, and other supplies while at sea. This means Indian Navy ships won’t have to return to ports as often, allowing them to stay out at sea longer and cover more area. This will greatly improve the Navy’s reach and mobility.

Ready for Emergencies and More

Besides refueling and resupplying other ships, these Fleet Support Ships will also be ready for emergency missions. They can help during natural disasters by carrying out rescue operations, evacuating people, and delivering relief supplies. This makes them not only important for the Navy but also useful in times of crisis for the general public.

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Boost for Indian Shipbuilding

The construction of these ships is a proud moment for India. Most of the design and materials are from Indian companies, which supports the country’s “Make in India” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) goals. This project shows that India is capable of building advanced ships that meet international standards.

Trust in Hindustan Shipyard Limited

The Indian Navy’s choice of HSL for this important project highlights the growing trust in the shipyard’s abilities. Since HSL was transferred to the Defence Ministry in 2010, it has aimed to take on major naval projects. The keel-laying ceremony was a proud moment for the shipyard as it brought them closer to their dream of constructing top-notch naval ships for India.

Job Creation and Economic Impact

This project will not only strengthen the Navy but also create a large number of jobs. Over the next eight years, the project is expected to create work for 169 lakh man-days. Many small and medium-sized companies (MSMEs) will also be involved, with around 550 such businesses contributing to the project. This will boost India’s economy and support local industries.

India’s Path to Self-Reliance

Building these ships is a clear sign of India’s progress towards self-reliance in the defense sector. It aligns with the country’s long-term goals to rely less on foreign sources for defense equipment. HSL’s efforts in building these advanced ships show that India’s shipbuilding industry is becoming more capable and confident.